Politics Reporter

Date Posted	November 24, 2025
Industry	Digital Media
Specialty	Politics
Remote / Telecommute	Hybrid
Job Status	Full-time
Salary	$76,000 — $90,000

Description:

New York Focus is seeking a full-time reporter to help lead our coverage of New York state politics in a pivotal moment.

You’ll have your work cut out for you in 2026. There will be a gubernatorial election on top of a closely watched budget and legislative season. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s agenda will live or die in Albany; how will he seek to win over the inertia-prone state capitol? What factions will emerge among his former colleagues in the legislature to support or oppose him? How will Governor Hochul position herself as challengers from left and right, a mercurial strongman president, a socialist mayor with an army of supporters, and entrenched business and labor interests all vie to influence her?

We’re looking for someone with the energy and experience to report timely, hard-hitting stories on the central stories of state politics. You’ll reveal what’s shaping decisions behind the scenes, bring Albany’s cast of characters to life, and tell the story of who runs New York. You’ll produce a variety of story formats, from quick-turn news stories to deeper investigations to explainers, analyses, and profiles.

Candidates must be able to live in Albany or to travel there on a weekly basis. (Focus will cover travel and accommodations.) Instructions on how to apply below. Apply by December 12, or sooner if you can.

About You

We’re looking for applicants with:

• A deep interest in New York politics

• A track record of agenda-setting political stories, and the proven ability to build deep sourcing in government

• The ability to file clear, compelling copy on deadline

• Comfort in a variety of story formats, including quick-turn scoops, news analysis, and in-depth accountability stories

• At least five years in journalism, including political reporting. Experience covering New York is a plus
  
  

About New York Focus

New York Focus is an independent newsroom investigating how power works in the Empire State. We focus on Albany, the state’s locus of power. Since our October 2020 launch, our stories have spurred policy and driven national news cycles. We’re a team of about 15 full-time staff and growing.

We are committed to building a diverse newsroom and strongly encourage members of underrepresented communities to apply.

Compensation

$76,000 to $90,000, plus medical, dental, and vision insurance and other benefits. This position is part of the New York Focus union.

To Apply

Send hires@nysfocus.com an email with the following materials:

• A cover letter

• Your resume

• Three or more clips. For each article, please submit a short description of what it achieved. Did it reveal important new information or introduce a fresh idea? Or rely on deep sourcing? Or have a significant impact?